Background
Building Hope in the City is an independent ministry organization that seeks to strengthen urban ministry and mission in Northeast Ohio and beyond.

Formed in August 2003, Building Hope in the City owes its birth to God's blessings and grace at Trinity Lutheran Church, a thriving, 160-year-old Lutheran congregation located just outside of downtown Cleveland.

Today, with a dyanmic board, staff and hundreds of volunteers, Building Hope in the City's efforts stretch from Cleveland to Akron and Cincinnati. The organization provides a broad new voice for urban missions and for the importance of God's People to be present in the city, sharing His Word and their witness of His redeeming love in Jesus. [back to top]

Our MissionRestoring the city to God by developing and linking people, communities and churches. We focus these efforts in four main areas:

Urban Community Development and Church PlantingWe work toward renewing and healing city neighborhoods from the inside out. Working in partnership with local residents, we build networks of people who work collaboratively to lead change, provide neighborhood solutions and programs and who help anchor new, dynamic city congregations and ministries.

Welcoming and Partnering with Refugees and ImmigrantsGod is gathering people of many differing cultures and nationalities into our cities. Building Hope in the City senses and acts upon His call to welcome these people, assist in their resettlement and make others aware of the many gifts and assets refugees and immigrants bring to our community.

Equipping Congregations to Serve Their Communities EffectivelyBuilding Hope in the City leads a variety of efforts to renew existing urban ministries including consulting services, leadership training for volunteers and pastors and offering proven know-how in outreach methods that help congregations connect with their community.

Training and Deploying God's People to Serve in the CityOur volunteers and partnering ministries are the lifeblood of this organization. Building Hope in the City serves as a rallying point and springboard for hundreds of area residents who want to engage their community concerns, faith and service to the Lord in the new ways. [back to top]

What We Do
Building Hope in the City provides urban ministry resources and leadership in partnership with the people and groups:

Community Leaders, Church Workers and Missionaries

• Training and ongoing support in starting new ministries and congregations

• Leadership and guidance for urban, faith-based community development efforts

• Peer-to-peer mentoring and leadership development for community leaders, pastors and evangelists

Urban Residents, Refugees and Immigrants

• Bible studies, care groups and community development activities and coordination